Dennis Robertson clarifies controversial comments about oil industry

Dennis Robertson MSP has addressed his controversial comments made in Holyrood where he said there was no crisis in the oil and gas industry.

The SNP MSP, who represents Aberdeenshire West, said in Holyrood on Tuesday: “There is no crisis. We have just extracted more oil than ever before in the North Sea.” This led led to Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale remarking that she thought his constituents would find that “absolutely astonishing”.

In a statement on his website, Robertson said: “In the remarks I made yesterday I accept that I could have expressed myself better when commenting on the industry’s current position and I apologise for any misunderstanding.

“The sector faces clear and substantial challenges and as politicians it is our job to work with the industry through these difficult times.”

He added: “I find it disappointing to hear politicians spread negativity around the industry when all parties should be working together to support it. I hope that other parties can join the SNP in pushing the UK government to provide meaningful incentives for exploration in the North Sea, allowing for development of new prospects and ensuring a future for the vital industry and jobs that depend on it.”